OLYMPIA – Washington is known for clean, tasty drinking water. And every year during the first week of May, state health officials honor the hardworking individuals who ensure the water coming out of our faucets is safe.

“The safe drinking water running through the taps of Washington homes is all thanks to the water system operators and others who provide safe, reliable drinking water to millions of Washington homes year after year,” said Clark Halvorson, director of the agency’s Office of Drinking Water.

It takes knowledge, dedication, and hard work to operate a water system. During National Drinking Water Week, the state Department of Health honors those who accept this demanding job.

Kitsap Public Utility District was awarded “Commitment to Excellence.”

The PUD, which owns and operates around 150 water systems, is committed to help struggling systems in Kitsap County.  Their award will be presented at 11 a.m.  on May 7 at the Kitsap PUD office, 1431 Finn Hill Road, Poulsbo.